Triandra Water-milfoil
elatine triandra
Also known as: ["Triandra Water-milfoil","Three-stamen Elatine"]
Overview
A small, annual aquatic or semi-aquatic herb with tiny, inconspicuous flowers, typically found in wetlands and shallow waters.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Elatinaceae |
| Genus: | Elatine |
| Botanical Name: | Elatine triandra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist garden bed or container near a water feature
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: low
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window; outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging, and water early in the day to reduce evaporation.
Soil
moist, sandy loam with good organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C). Tolerates slight fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor with a thermometer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a liquid fertilizer for easy absorption.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light for successful rooting.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; water for hydroponic propagation.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting, especially for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (optional).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged growth first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; water plant a day before repotting; handle roots carefully; place in shade for a few days post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a soil aerator if compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause root damage or leaf discoloration in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges in temperatures above 85°F (29°C) without adequate humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with a mister or pebble tray; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicElatine triandra is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicElatine triandra is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicElatine triandra is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no documented cases of toxicity associated with ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Elatine triandra suitable for aquariums?
A: Yes, it can be grown in aquariums or as a marginal plant in water gardens.
Q: Does Elatine triandra have any medicinal uses?
A: There is no widely documented medicinal use for this plant.
Q: How does Elatine triandra reproduce?
A: It reproduces via seeds and can sometimes spread vegetatively.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Elatinaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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